Music

Unpopular Opinion: Psy Isn’t Doing K-pop Any Favors

By now, everybody and their mother — and I mean that quite literally — has probably seen the masterful music video for South Korean rapper Psy‘s slightly subversive and uncommonly earworm-y hit “Gangnam Style.” Everybody and their mother is likely also aware that Psy (known to his wife, kids, and the South Korean authorities as Park Jae-sang) has (1) recently signed a contract to join US record label Island Records under the management of Scooter Braun, who is manager to both songstressCarly Rae Jepsenand one Justin Bieber (maybe you’ve heard of him?), and (2) earned himself a VIP invitation to the well-attended and popularly viewed MTV Video Music Awards, at which he performed “Gangnam Style” alongside The Wanted. Psy stood on the very same stage as did some of the most iconic musical artists in the world, including Rhianna, Nicki Minaj, Wiz Khalifa, One Direction, and Taylor Swift — and an appearance at the VMAs seems to be only the beginning of what could potentially be an extremely viable (and potentially lucrative) shot at breaking into the seemingly impenetrable US market.

It doesn’t need re-stating, but “Gangnam Style” has definitively turned Psy into an overnight viral sensation. The song has earned extensive international media coverage, far more than has any other K-pop song, and has surpassed SNSD‘s “Gee” as the most viewed K-pop music video on Youtube (at the time of this writing, it’s resting comfortably at a cool 112 million hits). A number of prominent American celebrities, from T-Pain to Tom Cruise, have Tweeted about it. Even reputable publications like The Atlantic and The Washington Post have published pieces analyzing the song and its success. For a K-pop act, this is more than one could have ever hoped for — and many followers of K-pop, both in South Korea and abroad, are downright reveling in Psy’s success, which can be seen as the culmination of years and years of effort (and probably millions of dollars) to finally get a Korean artist into the American spotlight.

But can it?

To be fair to Psy, he actually hits a surprising number of points on my own personal checklist for success abroad, one that I’ve been privately devising since my homegurls SNSD appeared on David Letterman last winter. He was educated at both Boston University and Berklee College of Music and possesses a strong command of English, which is essential to any promotional career in an English-speaking country. He knows music, knows the music industry, and is directly involved in both the creation and performance of his material — as in, he does what most K-pop stars can’t and writes his own songs. Unlike a shocking number of K-pop stars, he’s also decently talented as a rapper and a performer — and ridiculously charismatic for someone with his physical attributes. Psy has very nearly got the total package, and now that his foot is in the door, he’s in probably the best position possible to make some serious inroads into the world of Western music as a Korean artist.

But here’s the rub: Psy only got his foot in the door at all because “Gangnam Style” is gimmicky, plain and simple. The music video is comical purely because Psy is a chubby Asian doing a stupid and easy-to-imitate horse dance, and the song caught on largely because the hook is partially in English and therefore easy to repeat. Psy’s musical background, his talent, his witty lyrics blasting the ostentations and exceedingly opulent lifestyle of Seoul’s richest citizens, and his own self-deprecation are most likely of little import to a good chunk of the millions of people who’ve watched the music video on Youtube. Psy’s acceptance by a predominantly American audience does not indicate a changing attitude towards Korean pop music, nor should it be misconstrued as one. Psy’s victory is a victory for Psy and Psy alone — and not only does that victory come at the price of potentially being pigeon-holed into the role of chubby Asian gagman, it also holds very little promise for any other Korean music acts that hope to follow in his footsteps.

I admit that this is a harsh condemnation of what really is a milestone event — after all, it isn’t everyday that a K-pop icon makes it to the VMAs. However, it is important to be realistic about what makes Psy appealing to an audience that, with the exception of a small percentage of viewers, has no familiarity whatsoever with K-pop — and quite frankly, it is hard not to notice that Psy isn’t exactly your typical K-pop celebrity or idol. He’s not pretty, he’s not polished, and his music video isn’t a glittery, over-the-top spectacle featuring gorgeous, heavily made-up women, guyliner-sportin-yet-somehow-still-beastly men, a twenty-frame slow-motion release of a white dove, or anything like that. Rather, “Gangnam Style” is funny to look at. And that’s pretty much all there is to it. Even for viewers who have no idea what is being said, the image of Psy doing his ridiculous horse dance in a tourist bus full of middle-aged Korean women is funny, as is the image of him doing his ridiculous horse dance on a speedboat, on a merry-go-round, and in a parking lot. “Gangnam Style” doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously, and comes across as more of a hapless gag than a serious effort. Perhaps this indicates that a lot of K-pop takes itself too seriously for an American audience, but whatever way you spin it, it is noteworthy that what comes across almost as a parody video is what stole the spotlight — and not a (poorly sung) English language version of a K-pop song crafted with US success in mind.

Is this assessment wrong? It could be. And I don’t doubt that a lot of curious listeners are clicking around Youtube as per the site’s recommendations for more K-pop-related content, which could lead them to some of K-pop’s more famous (and more typical) offerings. But if the slapstick comedy of Psy is what brought them in, they’re unlikely to be satisfied with the rest of what K-pop has to offer. Consider this: when I was in early high school, this video of a pudgy white man lip-syncing and dancing to a Romanian-language pop song called “Dragostea Din Tei” (originally sung by Moldovan band O-Zone) became one of the earliest viral Youtube sensations, and it ultimately led to this song that nobody could properly sing along to (save the “numa numa” part) being played at every subsequent school dance, party, karaoke room, and bar I went to. One would probably have difficulty finding a young twenty-something-year-old who couldn’t identify the song or its origin. But as popular as the song was and is (and I still hear it from time to time), Romanian-language pop music didn’t take suddenly take off in the USA, nor did O-Zone ever enjoy widespread popularity. As it is with “Gangnam Style,” it was simply an insanely catchy song with an easy-to-imitate hook that was accompanied by a gimmicky music video (though admittedly not the original music video) featuring a somewhat unattractive man doing a a stupid dance. And that’s the short and skinny of it.

Does this mean that Psy’s success is undeserved? Not at all — after all, he was the creative mind that produced the video, however gimmicky, and wrote the song. However, that “Gangnam Style” was the first music video to break the mold in the US doesn’t exactly inspire confidence in the rest of K-pop doing the same. But maybe Kim Shin-young and Jung Ju-ri should start seriously thinking about becoming singers with an eye on the American market. If gags and gimmicks are the best way to sell K-pop abroad, then the arbiters of the Korean Wave can and will likely be some of the most unexpected people in K-entertainment.

But it’s such a novelty piece; it’s the closest thing I’ve seen to a Korean ‘Macarena’. I hope people don’t see this and judge all other K-Pop by it.”

enily

That is basically what they are going to do. I live in america and I would tell you that some peoples idea of kpop is way off. Just recently I play some of my favorite songs to a friend with out telling her what it was and she was shock when she realize what it was “it sounds just like american music!” Was her response like it was the strangest thing in the world

Varsico

I agree with pretty much everything in this article, and honestly all I can think of is why isn’t 2NE1 taking advantage of Psy’s viral fame and using it to get their faces out there?

http://twitter.com/jms177 Justy

Agreed.

http://twitter.com/rentrule12 ana

Well he is doing extremely well on the charts especially itunes. He keeps on moving up the chart as I am writing this he is currently number 22. It is not just the video though that is the biggest reason but it is also the song. Maybe he won’t have another hit though but he is getting radio airplay and scooter seems to want to promote this man
comedy has always been strong in america look at LMFAO they are middle age white men and they had 2 number one hits
i am waiting on an english version of right now which is also comedy

Frankly, this is not Psy’s fault. Psy is actually a quite good rapper, and this track was meant as a joke and basically a mindless club banger (directed to his Korean fans). But the truth is that Psy fits the idea of your stereotypical Asian person in America, like Margaret Cho or Ken Jeong. White Americans (I am talking about them, because this is about his success in the USA, right?) generally do not want to see Asians (and let’s be real, other races too) outside of their stereotypes. This, and the catchy tune and ridiculous dance, is why Gangnam Style is popular. It is mainly about “lol that chubby guy”. But also because people just don’t feel like broadening their horizons. With Gangnam Style they don’t care that they don’t understand the language. But watching a SNSD video or a 2ne1 video they will be accused of ripping off Western artists, and again the emphasis will be on the language. Because in these videos it’s plain and simple that Asians, or rather people whose first language is not English, can do pop music just as good (or better) as Western artists.

lol hopefully I’ve made my point.

idontknoe

In America you’re only as relevant as your latest hit, so we’ll all just have to wait and see.

pg13247

This is exactly how I feel about this song. I saw the video when it was released and it was simply a quirky and ridiculous video to me. I don’t think it’s just like the Macarena of 2012, it IS. I don’t hate the song, I like the dance (which is much harder to learn than I thought) but I don’t think k-pop will gain a lot of new fans.

There was an American? article that summed up k-pop in a nutshell sans Psy:

“Pretty videos and well-packaged people but ultimately bland music.” A lot of k-pop really does sound like Western songs sung in Korean. I still love k-pop regardless, I just don’t think a k-pop takeover is happening now.

http://twitter.com/kokomilgrim 코코 밀그림

I totally thought of the Numa Numa dance when I saw this a month ago (has it been a whole month??)

It’s starting to grow on me a bit, in a backlash to the backlash sort of way, but I didn’t really like it until I saw it used in “A Gentleman’s Dignity” in a mashup with yes, the Macarena.

Btw I thought that Atlantic article was pretentious as all hell. I mean, do we need that much faux-intellectual bullshit over a summer hit/ wedding and bar mitzvah dance? This article was much better:)

intheshort

I agree.

I would also like to point out that Gary (the guy in the Numa Numa video, I think) also released a second version of the Numa Numa video featuring himself dancing to a whole new song, but the second effort was nowhere near as successful as the first. Thus, I am skeptical as to what Psy will be releasing in the US. Will he go for Gangnam Style part 2 or will he actually put out some serious music? I do hope it’s the latter, as I feel that Asian and Asian American artists are somewhat lacking in the mainstream.

I find it ironic that JYP and SM tried so hard to break into the American market, yet it was an inadvertent effort by Psy which finally did it. I guess YG just gets lucky. XP

I thought it was even funnier that, per Psy’s own words, YG, himself, didn’t acknowledge him by name until this song started gaining traction.lol

I think it surprised YG as much as the rest of us. It’s not like he hasn’t tried as hard as hell to get an artist noticed in the US before (just look at Se7en and Jinusean, etc).

intheshort

Whooops. Totally forgot about Se7en. Need to brush up on my KPop history.

XP

Kim Youna

I totally agree with you.Even if this song that the truth is very irritating for me,i am one of the less people that dont like it and can hardly wait like it’s fever to go away because it is frustrating to see the song on tv so often everytime i change the channel.
And yes,gangnam style doesnt represents at all kpop music.And for sure it is just a pass away success.I was shocked to see you mention my people(i am romanian) and yes i agree,the band O-ZONE didnt got more famous actually i think that the band doesnt exists anymore and a part of that song was used in one of Ryanna’s song(i hope i write her name corectly,if not forgive me).
Nothing will change much,this is the clonclusion!

http://twitter.com/SrilathaR Srilatha Rajamani

I think what makes Gangnam Style unique from other K-Pop videos is that it is all Korean in content and presentation (ex: public baths). Then there is commentary on the Asian syndrome: wanting Western trappings externally while being all Asian inside. The horse dance may have been the hook but story is social comment. I like K-pop and it is a refreshing change from the increasing coarseness and violence of Western popular music. But if K-Pop wants to succeed, it must do so on its own unique terms – not just by copying the West. Social Media has unlimited potential for niche marketing and the language is also not a big issue. Rather than trying to imitate American pop, K-Pop should focus on fusion – unique sound and content. Case in point: the Indian composer A R Rahman – succeeded because he fused the rich Asian / Indian music heritage with the equally powerful Western sounds. Gangnam Style is a good natured poke on hypocrisy. If people think it became so popular because of the Asian sterotype only, then they are guilty of indulging in the same stereotypical thought process.

http://twitter.com/rentrule12 ana

i love this comment

http://marisu-dono.livejournal.com/ Marisu

It’s not really an unpopular opinion that PSY’s popularity is because of its novelty that lends it to a meme-like status. Which is why the Macarena is an apt comparison, it could be a one hit wonder sort of scenario. At best, he’ll probably be like LMFAO – entertaining via humor complete with an admittedly earwormy hook. Humor is universal- which is why Gangnam Style isn’t just popular in USA, but globally.

Though I agree with you that it’s an unpopular opinion that GS is popular *despite* it being Kpop. As you mentioned, PSY and the song GS itself is as un-Kpop as it gets. I’m sure it’ll be easy to find fans who disagree with this opinion, and insist it’s a hallmark/testament etc.. to Kpop’s appeal/superiority etc…

While I do believe there will be people who will be exposed to Kpop via GS (especially through YT’s recs), I don’t think it will be bring new fans in droves. My Kpop friend says it best:

“Imagine if some random person exposed to PSY, becomes curious about Kpop and is recommended Super Junior/ TVXQ/ *insert Kpop band of choice*.”

Although I do hope, PSY’s popularity, would mean growth within the Kpop industry itself, as now there is some sort of blueprint to develop. Yes it’s mostly a novelty thing but I think it’s a disservice to international music audience to dismiss them as solely thinking of PSY as a “funny Asian guy that dances weirdly.” Due to his ease in interacting with the international media, there are more people who gets that GS is a parody in all sense of the word; that it also has substance as a wry social commentary.

Therefore, personally I feel GS contains elements that the rest of the Kpop industry should take their queues from; lessen up on the homogeneity, give more creative control to the talent and allow more spontaneity. It also helps if the industry itself (especially the crazier fans) take themselves less seriously.

hapacalgirl

While Psy definitely isn’t an example of the kpop image, “Gangnam style “is as close as it gets of having an actual kpop song do well in the states, not a western influenced song in korean but an actual kpop style song. Lets face it mainstream kpop is catchy, gimmicky, hook and catchy dance driven music
currently. Whether it will remain that way is unforseen but right now thats what it is. The fact that its satirical gives it more depth than the average kpop song but structurally it exemplifies the sound of kpop music. I do agree though with many of your other points on its appeal to the public and why its unfortunate though.

As for the commenters saying that “white america ” is the reason why asians aren’t making it stateside, I will admit this is true in terms of hollywood , as there is more than enough evidence to back this up , I would say the same cannot be said musically. There are many asian and asian american hip hop and rnb artists that can give many current artists a run for their money but do you think the highly african american driven genre would give them the time of day or respect, I highly doubt it.

This is an article that needed to be written, because so many people seem to be placing so much hope in the success of a meme and that will only lead to heartbreak.

Could PSY take off in the US? Absolutely. The fact that he speaks English is a huge advantage in his endeavors, as is the fact that his image stands out from the crowd. However, prolonged success would be a very longshot.

First, consider how many artists successfully follow up on a song that exploded into the mainstream consciousness… Yeah, I can’t think of many, either.

We’ve seen this same song and dance a million times — except then it was called the Macarena, or the Soulja Boy, or the Dougie, etc. Every one of those artists associated with those dance exploded onto the scene like PSY did, and all faded into the shadows within a year of their initial success.

Internet meme-like hits usually don’t happen in succession. Did the people who made All Your Base Are Belong To Us or Trololo ever doing anything significant again? No. Because internet meme’s are a flash in the pan. They come, they make their presence known, people tweet about them and share the video, everybody gets some laughs out of it, then it fades. Every time.

Is it possible that PSY may be different? It could be. Mostly because he isn’t likely to deviate from the style that first got him attention. Also, he is collaborating with some well-known American artists (or at least their management). But even Scooter Braun is not an instant ticket to success. His two homeruns are artists that appeal to the pre-teen generation (Beaver and Jepson). His one hip hop oriented artist (Asher Roth) has done nothing of real note. Even Jepson followed up her smash hit by barely cracking the top 10. Beaver’s success has as much to do with his image as his music, which all but guarantees he will continue to be relevant into his late teens the way the Carter brothers were, or Jesse McCartney until he and his fanbase grow up.

Will PSY have that advantage (a fanbase that will stick with him through a growing phase)? I highly doubt it. He will have his fans that follow him from K-pop, and others who like quirky images with their music. I can’t see him swaying any of the hardcore hip hop listeners unless his English rhyming is tight. I also don’t see pre-teens putting PSY posters up in their rooms, writing “PSY Jenkins” in their notebooks. God help America if that actually happened…

What I do see is, PSY revels in his much deserved notoriety of the moment (Gangnam Style, at least, deserves to have its time in the spotlight). Then, Gangnam Style will eventually fade like everything else, to be followed up by a single that tries to recapture the magic and is met with only marginal success, mostly spurred on by a collaboration of some sort (probably Beaver). When the time comes for PSY to produce another big hit without celebrity backing, the jig will be up.

Like I said, we’ve seen this song and dance a million times.

http://twitter.com/kokomilgrim 코코 밀그림

Now I am going to write “Koko Psy<3" in my notebook!! God help me. At least we can think PSY for adding to the repetroire of wedding DJs everywhere. PSY didn't really do anything to make me listen to more K-Pop (because I am already a fangirl and that's probably not possible). What he DID do is make me search for the video for "Rico Suave" on YouTube and download it- they sound really great together, and I think PSY must have seen the Gerardo video at some point- they are like brothers for another omma!

I’m probably the only person in the country who actually listened to O-Zone’s entire album. It was pretty good. They’ve all gone solo now and Dan Balan in particular still has a little relevance, but only in Europe.

I don’t think this will go any further. This whole thing has clearly been about the video and dance and not so much about the song aside from the catchy hook, just like all of its other viral counterparts before it (macarena before youtube, the ketchup song, “numa numa”, etc). A truly substantial moment for kpop, imo, would be if someone released a song that slowly got some traction and then charted. Like Cher Lloyd right now, she’s not EVERYWHERE, but she’s somewhere and now she’s got a top 10 hit, with a decent amount of preorders for her album apparently. Who saw that coming? Same with Ellie Goulding. Slowly but surely her album has chugged right on along and popped back up into the upper portion of the charts. No huge dominating takeover, just a few slow burners.

http://www.michelle-chin.com/ Michelle Chin

I agree with your opinion. It’s not unpopular. It’s a realistic opinion. I know people who like K-pop for its visuals, dance moves and style not enjoying PSY. Why? I’ve heard reasons ranging from “I can’t relate to him, he’s not around my age like Teen Top” to “There’s nothing special. He’s not good looking”.

Clearly, some K-pop fans are after the looks than the content. And it’s not secret.

However, for the American market, looks are often secondary. I feel that what they want is something unique, something different and Gangnam Style totally fits their ball. I can understand why Gangnam Style successful. He has this whole fun vibe to him despite the lyrics, which actually say a lot but I don’t think the US market actually cares. I mean, I wonder what Tom Cruise and other superstars are thinking as he listens to this. Did he actually google up Gangnam? Or other K-pop acts? Or PSY’s previous works? I bet he didn’t!

Not only that, the press did a really good job in turning this viral. I also would understand why a lot of superstars jumped into the Gangnam style bandwagon.

By the way, I can imagine how some entertainment agencies are having a fit over this because PSY is not your everyday K-pop idol, equipped with youth and trained to be dancing machines.

Maybe this would be a good red light to signal to the Korean entertainment industry that manufacturing of idols won’t get them closer to their goals of actually piercing into the US market. They also should really drop the Engrish *cues JYJ’s Aye girl*

http://twitter.com/J2201987 Justin Asomugha

I’ve come to the conclusion that the K-pop industry (and possibly K-pop fans) have ridiculous, and somewhat unrealistic, expectations in attaining a large amount of success as an entity outside of the Korean Peninsula.

Granted, I’ve been into K-pop since late 2010 and only heard of Psy when I watched the YG family Strong Heart special earlier this year so I don’t know much about him, but I don’t think it’s fair to make him carry the torch for K-pop across the United States and the rest of the world. His current popularity here only happened by chance. He even stated himself that it was just a quirky video released to his fans only. He probably had no intention of traveling outside of his home country (I’m assuming) to become an overnight sensation.

I watched the “GangNam Style” MV, had an “lol/wtf” moment, and closed the video tab. Psy’s music isn’t my taste personally , but I’m happy he is having his individual moment of success. And I think it should just be that — an individual success, NOT a K-pop one. Any k-pop artist (like many other foreign acts) that wants to debut in the states should showcase what makes them a unique Korean/Asian, and of course articulating yourself in the English language.

I think many K-pop fans need to let go of this fantasy that the “Hallyu” is going to take over the world, when right now it’s still just making splashes across eastern Asia. It’s so difficult for Asian Americans, who were born/raised in the US/Canada and knowledgeable of North American culture, to make it here they have to flock to Korea (eg Ailee, John Park, Jay Park, G.Na, etc) just to have some kind of success. It’s very unlikely that in the near future there will be a miniature army of glittery k-pop robots invading the US, dancing and singing on cue to a generic western-like beat.

Psy’s “GangNam Style” isn’t doing K-pop any favors and it shouldn’t. It’s only a microcosm of the genre many of us have come to (secretly) love. To be honest no one artist should really represent an entire genre of music anyway. There’s too much diversity. Any Asian act that intends on debuting in the Americas or Europe or Africa or Australia should do so on their own terms with their own style, not having to be sent across the world like some ambassador on behalf of their native country.

http://profile.yahoo.com/MMRQEZEPSNJ26LJ7XJNDDM5NCI JasmineA

Regarding Psy representing the Hallyu Wave or Kpop idols…doesn’t it seem like that’s how Korea works…I mean excuse me if I sound ignorant or misinformed, correct me if I’m wrong, but it seems like a lot of kpop idols are pressured into representing Korea as a whole. I mean why do you think 2ne1 spoke Korean in one of their English interviews in New York even know 3 out 4 can speak pretty good English and are not native Korean, or why GD spoke Korean at EMAs and BIGBANG using Big Korean flags at the concerts this year like its the fourth of july except for Koreans, and now Psy at the VMA’s speaking Korean saying he happy to speak the language on this stage, its because they are going to represent their country and the Hallyu Wave, not just as BIGBANG, 2ne1, or Psy, they are representing Korea. I agree with you that it shouldn’t be that way, I’ve been saying the same thing in the majority of my comments, that an artist sucess is their own but fans expect him any other kpop idol for that matter to represent the Hallyu wave because that is what the Korean entertainment expects as well, I for one try not to think in that way though because for one thing that has always bothered me a bit about Kpop going global with the idea that Korea is taking over…or something like that. It sounds border line offensive or too nationalistic honestly. What country is going to be happy with the idea of someone coming in their country to “take over”. I think Kpop idols should come in with the idea of creating a more equal opportunity for Asians in the music industry, not with the idea that I want to be seen as better than you.

MAR_M3anie

I agree with both of you. It’s interesting when I read this from Yang Hyun Suk about the success of GS. When he said’s this…

“When you try and pull different tricks in order to force-create a
certain type of music or MV to reach a certain goal, the results are
often not so great. It was impossible not to look back and think about
what kind of musicians are often welcomed with open arms by the public.”

Ok, so he recognizes that the tricks are not working but then he goes on to say this…

“The more important fact is not that “Gangnam Style” is drawing major popularity, but that the artist is a Korean singer.”

“Just as Bae Yong Jun created a Korean drama craze in Japan with ‘Winter Sonata‘, and just as BoA served as the first pioneer for K-Pop overseas, Psy needs to play that kind of role in the States,” he added. “It
doesn’t matter how much money Psy makes in the States. He needs to
break down obstacles, as well as break down prejudices in regards to
Korean artists. Thanks to Psy, artists such as Big Bang, and 2NE1, as well as other Korean artists now have a little more potential when it comes to breaking the world market.”

It’s like he understands one part of it but because of Nationalism not really the whole picture. I mean I understand it, if you are the first to make it big in any field especially if you are a minority you are made the representative, but at the same time, especially when it comes to music just Psy being himself as an individual should be enough.

Well, Psy started out in Korean and ended in English. That’s not my problem. I am looking at why he is doing it. Is it because he has to represent the Hallyu Wave? I feel like it is.

I’m not sure if YG is being nationalistic or wanting to help get ride of prejudices and breaking down obstacles. If its the second one, I understand that, their is quite a stigma against Asians in Hollywood. His success or anything or idol for that matter could help with that. If its the first one, since he specifically says Korean artist, not Asian, it sounds nationalistic which isn’t bad to an extent. It just that with some people they expect these idols to have a Korean pride type of attitude when breaking into another countries market, which I don’t feel is right.If he said something like “It is now Psy job to spread Korean Culture and Music” then I would question it more but I am not sure, he sounds like he wants Korean artist to be able to break into the industry without prejudice.

And you know maybe he can help break down prejudice, its hard to tell. To me its nothing people can really predict. We will just have to see. To me just because Americans like Psy doesn’t mean they will like other artists, however, it could spark people into looking up further into kpop, and if they don’t like it they don’t, if they do they’ll become fans. There are few people who are now kpop fans because of “Gangman Style”. So I’m just gonna wait.

MAR_M3anie

“Well, Psy started out in Korean and ended in English. That’s not my
problem. I am looking at why he is doing it. Is it because he has to
represent the Hallyu Wave? I feel like it is.”

Yeah I saw the clip with Psy speaking Korean and then English, I was just speaking in general in what you were saying, like Big Bang and 2NE1 and other artists that have to represent the Hallyu Wave. That’s why I gave the example.

But we are on the same page. :)

http://profile.yahoo.com/MMRQEZEPSNJ26LJ7XJNDDM5NCI JasmineA

I know, I just wanted to make it clear to people who are reading because I don’t want to come across as one of those people who are intolerant of others speaking a different language other than English. I want to make it clear what my intention is. But yeah I agree with you :)

http://twitter.com/J2201987 Justin Asomugha

I agree with you about K-artists feeling “pressured” into representing Korea. I feel that is a problem.

There’s nothing wrong with having national/patriotic pride. However it shouldn’t be some kind of requirement that an artist has to be the representative of their native country’s genre of music or culture. I personally don’t see anything wrong with artists like Big Bang or 2NE1 giving shout-outs in Korean at an award show or speaking Korean in an interview for an English-speaking country because 1) it’s their native tongue and 2) They are not fully promoting material like they would at home. If they were promoting a song or an album extensively then that would be a different story.

I look at it like this: when the latin era exploded in the late 90’s/early 00’s it started out with a few songs here and there, then the “Macarena” came and was huge. Soon enough, more hispanic/latin artists came on to the scene, including Ricky Martin, Marc Anthony, Santana, J.Lo, and I think Enrique Iglaesias and Shakira rounded it out. The Latin invasion happened because there was a catalyst (IMO Macarena) and there was already a significant sect of the American population that could demand and support the music, including non-hispanics (including me, being african american) who took interest. It’s not like all the latin countries decided to band together to spit-shine, polish, grate down, steam press and wrap up “latin pop” or “L-pop” into a nice and contrived little package and ship it via fed-ex to the United States and tell us to love it or else, much like what K-pop seems intent on doing. It will not happen like that here, in Japan and no where else in the world for that matter.

What the Latin era achieved in the States can happen for K-pop but the interest has to progress into something a very diverse general population can appreciate. And while acts like Santana and Shakira are the most memorable artists of the latin craze, they were in no way the light bearers for the music genre that Latin America depended on to make bank. They just did their thing.

K-pop (industry and crazed fans) needs to back the f*ck off of Psy and let him do his thing. And whatever is supposed to happen for him, and other K-artists, will happen. There’s too much invested in having K-pop shipped around the world to be loved and adored by millions.

http://profile.yahoo.com/MMRQEZEPSNJ26LJ7XJNDDM5NCI JasmineA

I realize its their native tongue, but I’m trying to look at why they are doing it, I feel like its to spread Korean culture and about Korean pride. I feel like these artist are usually told to do it or feel pressured to speak Korean to show off their Korean pride and if they didn’t people back home might not have liked it. I mean if a foreigner went on a Korean show, don’t they have to know Korean fluently? I can’t go up on their show speaking English because of American Pride, but I also don’t think I’d feel pressured to do it either, if I knew Korean I’d just speak the language. When Koreans go to Japan they make an effort to learn Japanese and cater to that culture, why is it different with a Western audience? I mean you said they are not promoting an album extensively but isn’t that their goal eventually?

But yeah I agree with you for the most part. I don’t have a problem with Koreans speaking Korean, I even think it would be good for them to use both Korean and English in their songs if they debut in America as something that represents who they are. But what I am talking about here specifically how the Korean entertainment company and even the government expects Kpop idols to spread their culture and language around the world, its ridiculous to expect that from idols, its becomes less about achievement of the singer and more about spreading the Hallyu Wave, hence why they are told to speak Korean at award shows its doesn’t seem like a shout out to Koreans but more of “I am here to represent my country”. I mean I think when BIGBANG won the EMA’s Top said “he felt proud to be Korean”, something he has no control over lol, and not about being proud to be a rapper/idol that he has worked so hard to even achieve an award like that which is not common for an Asian artist, something that he actually has control over to an extent anyways. I feel like its because BB will be praised at home for representing their country so well, and they are taught to be very nationalistic so they feel that pressure every time they succeed that they need to represent their country. I mean just look up the lyrics for “Clap Your Hands” and “Can’t No Body” and tell me they don’t sound nationalistic. CL even says in Can’t Nobody, “Asians Take Over, No Mercy We Thirsty”. It makes me question the motives behind a lot of things kpop idols do when trying to go global.

http://pulse.yahoo.com/_EXJU3M2KCSRIDECLUCJGUZFQTQ knn knn

PSY does not represent the kpop idols like SNSD, Suju, Wondergirls coz they are very different. Maybe, if we want to introduce Kpop subtly to the Americans, we should introduce something similar to PSY like LeeSsang, Epik High, Tiger JK, GD dragon, Big Bang and 2NE1.

RC_RC

“Just making splashes across eastern Asia”…

Do you know how many people live in that area?

http://twitter.com/superwoman5060 Hannah

I have to say I agree with you. A lot of people have been gushing about how good Psy’s success is in relation to K-pop going international, but i dont buy it. If anything, this is worse for the Hallyu wave. Now, when Americans hear the word K-pop, they’ll probably think of that one hilarious, crack-tastic music video that Korean guy did. And thats fine, but I think it prevents people from accrediting K-pop as something that might have some actual musical integrity. I want Korean artists to succeed overseas, but I’m afraid that now Westerners might see K-pop as a bit of a joke. I’m honestly just hoping that 2ne1 is gonna have a kick ass album and blow everyone away.

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

Ok this comment make no sense. People are not stupid they know that a culture’s art have different genre. Yes Psy is well know but that does not necessary means all Korean artist are like him and people know that. Unless you’re ignorant you know that there are different type/genres of music. If we follow your logic then people around the world think that all American artists sounds like lady GAGA or Britney Spears since they are so popular. People know about other Korean artists too, they just don’t receive the same kind of love

http://www.facebook.com/DAT1ASIAN Michael Yang

You have terrible, terrible comprehension, and it shows in your rebuttals. If you’re going to refute a claim, the least you could do is understand it. I’m sure you already know what a generalization is; of course it’s the wrong thing to do to anything (music, genres included), but it happens all the time. It’s weird, saying it like this, but the general population is going to stereotype everything. What Hannah is saying makes complete sense, it’s going to make people assume that the entire genre is completely the same way as Gangnam Style is.

Do you really think people don’t generalize American music?

You really need to read and understand perspectives if you want to argue, otherwise you just make yourself seem like a fool.

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

And like I said before if you one of those who generalize than you’re an idiot because you must know that a country/culture have different type/genre. And on what do you base your argument to say that people “will” generalize kpop. Why “Must” it happen this way?

“it’s going to make people assume that the entire genre is completely the same way as Gangnam Style is.” Really? is that the only outcome of this sudden popularity? Why so much negativity? Maybe people, at least those with a brain, would only assume this is only one style, and one song and look around for more of kpop, since Psy did such a good job introducing people who didn’t know about kpop. Rain introduced me to kpop, but as I looked around I found Big Band, Wonder Girls, Trot, Ballad, Korean underground artists (drunken tiger, loptimist, Supreme Team). I didn’t just assume that every single Korean artists sound like Rain did I now?

And who are you people God? How can you predict so clearly a future that no one is certain about? with what logic? Yes certain people are foolish enough to generalize such a diverse country like America, but does everybody do it?Well I have lived in 3 countries, America not included and I can tell you no. So for the one that doesn’t do it, don’t you think that could serve as a doorway to understand the culture?Plus if not Psy who then would be considered worthy enough to introduce kpop to the world? because no matter who it is people will still “generalize”?, and those who choose to will find fault with whichever artist it is. Had it been 2ne1, big bang’s SNSD, 2pm and so on, would have found fault with the song or the style, and vice versa. And please refrain yourself from commenting on my reading comprehension when it is so clear that you need to work on yours.

http://www.facebook.com/DAT1ASIAN Michael Yang

You know, in a perfect world people wouldn’t be so hasty to generalize things, but too bad it’s not a perfect world, eh? You have to realize that people are always going to generalize things, and in fact that’s the majority of the world. If you don’t know that yet, then you’re more naive than I thought.

By the way, your comprehension still sucks, I laid out the entire argument in an easy to read, and understand fashion yet you still don’t understand it. Typical k-fandom.

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

“Yes certain people are foolish enough to generalize
such a diverse country like America, but does everybody do it?Well I
have lived in 3 countries, America not included and I can tell you no.
So for the one that doesn’t do it, don’t you think that could serve as a
doorway to understand the culture?”
I’m done with this convo because you’re ridiculous. I apologize for not having the acumen to spot crazy people on the internet, and for not speaking the same crazy language as you. Now begone!!

http://twitter.com/DeniseHuxxtable Thank You Sun God

But seriously, you really do have poor comprehension skills.

http://twitter.com/MusicTeaorg MusicTea.org

“Unless you’re ignorant you know that there are different type/genres of
music. If we follow your logic then people around the world think that
all American artists sounds like lady GAGA or Britney Spears since they
are so popular.”

Have you never visited YouTube? It seems to be common opinion from Europeans/Asians that “American music sucks, it’s all just crappy pop music.” The depth of ignorance it takes to believe that all people from a country, even one as big as the US, fit into the same handful of stereotypes actually exists. When we hear the word “Korea” most Americans probably think of North Korea, nuclear weapons, and past wars. If Gangnam Style is someone’s first exposure to South Korean culture, I wouldn’t be surprised if they assume most music is similar.

http://twitter.com/mellowyel Mellowyel

I agree with the basic premise of this article – Psy’s new found
popularity isn’t about to make K-pop blow up on a global scale. But I’m
not sure I agree with the reasoning behind it. You say that “Gangnam
Style” is popular because it’s gimmicky – fat Asian dude in funny video
singing catchy song. But those three things don’t necessarily make it a
gimmick. Gimmicks are for the most part random things (usually unrelated
to the artistic content itself) intended to get people interested in
something they otherwise would not be interested in. The dictionary
definition says specifically “a trick or device intended to attract
attention and publicity”. So it’s more about intent than effect, and
maybe not the best description here. Or at least, one that doesn’t sit
comfortably with me. Because if “Gangnam Style” is gimmicky, then Psy
himself is just one huge gimmick and the fact that he’s actually a
skilled musician gets pushed to the background, even if you acknowledge
it in your article.

Let’s be real – all pop musicians have a
gimmick. 9 gorgeous Asian girls? Gimmick. Unbelievably weird fashion?
Gimmick. Teen heartthrob with humble beginnings who got famous off
Youtube? You could say gimmick. Yet I’m uncomfortable with labeling the
last one a gimmick because that’s just who Bieber is – a talented kid
whose success is really a great story. He didn’t choose to be
interesting. Psy maybe chose to use his non-stereotypical-idol looks to
his comedic advantage, but that doesn’t mean that he created the entire
“Gangnam Style” video with the sole intent of becoming Youtube famous.
For a viewer otherwise unfamiliar with k-pop, the video functions as a
gimmick because you wouldn’t know this song, who Psy was, or what k-pop
was if you hadn’t seen the video and found it
hilarious/interesting/ridiculous/what have you. But for Psy, the intent
wasn’t to make a video for the lulz and Youtube hits, but to comment on a
particular culture through comedy. Maybe not a huge distinction, but an important one to make IMO.

Fresh Lemons

The way K-pop fans have this idea that if Psy is able to have extreme success that the rest of K-pop will rise. It reminds me the same theory anime fan have which is a similar idea about if there is one anime that can be taken seriously by the mainstream that the genre as a whole can rise in West and not be a niche (before anyone jumps down my throat, anime is a niche bc outside of its fans, the mainstream does not take it seriously). I do not believe that Psy himself can make K-pop become a legitimate success in the US just by how this article points out on how he is different from which you see in the genre. You can also point out that Psy’s lifestyle or his personality fits more in tune in the US than your average kpop idol who most of the time seem like some sort of robots with the way they portray themselves. I honestly wonder how artist like Boa, Seven or any other Asian artists who has tried to make it overseas what is their opinion of Psy succeeding them when he did not even try to make it big overseas in the first place.

http://twitter.com/_amyhoney ☆Amy

“(before anyone jumps down my throat, anime is a niche bc outside of its fans, the mainstream does not take it seriously).”

LMAO. Probably the most well-put (and nicest) way of saying it. It’s the same reason I remain a “closet” anime fan, since the Western stereotype of anime fans isn’t the most attractive. Ironically tho, I’m damn proud listen to KPop :P

zandria56

I personally think Korean ballads are different. You don’t need to know the language because the feeling comes over on its own.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1240283540 Jenna Nelson

totally agree. you can hear the emotion sung and relate even if you don’t know the lyrics.

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

Wow they say no matter what you do, successful or not people will be throwing shades… and man they were not wrong!! Dude you lost me at SNSD blah blah blah… Because I knew based on this one sentence alone the rest of the article can only be the ranting of a hater trying to bad mouth a very successful artist. Quite frankly you may be a very lovely level-headed young person but that is not what you’re portraying right at this moment. By the way when you belittle someone’s success and ridicule their art, then throw few compliment here and there and do the “well I don’t know maybe…” half-assed excused of a sarcastic remarks comment, does not fool anyone. I would rather you criticized him straight up, and stick by your article then you do the two-face, back handed compliment the mean girls of my high school use to do. This article is so hypocritical. Why can’t we just rejoice in the fact that the video has such a high popularity? Gimmicky is also a style and some would even say an “art”.

Everybody and their mother (to use your words) knows that comedy is way harder than any other genre. That is why this video is genius. His antics could have been received way differently. The ability to connect to almost everyone is a hard thing to do, but the fact that he did, AND HE DID SO EFFORTLESSLY is something to admire and praised…period not buts, or deep analyzing needed. And yes he is doing kpop a favor because he is giving other Korean artist a chance to shine. That is what they call Hallyu wave. It’s the introduction of any form of Korean arts to the world. My friend started watching “speedy scandal” after watching this video. She thought Korean only did “martial art” related stuff. And believe I know how silly that sounds but you would be surprise how many people think that way. One thing can lead to another. When Big bang won that MTV thing two years ago everyone gave them props for speading the kpop love, same goes with the “failed” appearance of SNSD on American TV. Can we just be grateful for how amazingly fast Psy is spreading the love too and leave it at that? It doesn’t matter how he got “his foot in the door”.. or whatever, he got exposure and that is all that matters in the entertainment business. How and why does not matter, ask Kim Kardashian…

http://twitter.com/A7316A AB

Erm. If you read the article through, you’d see that the author is pointing out that the gimmicky style is why Psy was successful. In no way is she saying that creating that style is easy or something to belittle.

“Does this mean that Psy’s success is undeserved? Not at all — after
all, he was the creative mind that produced the video, however gimmicky,
and wrote the song. However, that “Gangnam Style” was the first music
video to break the mold in the US doesn’t exactly inspire confidence in
the rest of K-pop doing the same.”

That right there is probably the best summary of the article. The author is just pointing out that just because Psy achieved success doesn’t mean that the rest of K-pop will considering the vast differences between Psy’s style of music and the type of music K-pop idols create.

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

If you read the article you will see that she said that people only love him because he’s fat and chubby and Gimmicky, and the author make it sounds like it’s a bad thing. First unless we ask everyone on the web we won’t know why they like this video so much, and maybe him being chubby is not even a factor.

“But here’s the rub: Psy only got his foot in the door at all because
“Gangnam Style” is gimmicky, plain and simple. The music video is
comical purely because Psy is a chubby Asian doing a stupid and
easy-to-imitate horse dance, and the song caught on largely because the
hook is partially in English and therefore easy to repeat.” Why? seriously why do I sense so much “hating” in this sentence. And you know what they say, one sentence can set the tone of a whole book. She make it seem like all, the world is liking this video not because of Psy musical skills, or well planned comedic effects, but because we are ridiculing him, and laughing at him but not with him. Why so much nasty feelings behind that one sentence? So the only way he can be popular is because he is a subject of ridicule, not because he is musically gifted?

And had you read my comment you would notice that I clearly say that I don’t like the fact that she belittle his success and the influence that he may or not have on the world’s audience. I stated also that I don’t like the fact that she said a bunch of bad stuff then give a few back handed compliment here and there. Like my mother like to say: “what is the point of giving someone medicine after you’ve made them sick”.

http://www.facebook.com/DAT1ASIAN Michael Yang

If you’ve paid any attention, that is literally why it was so popular. First and foremost, if you’ve met anybody that knows about Gangnam Style, and you started a discussion about it, the majority of the time you’re going to talking about the video, not the song, the video. It’s the factors described in the author’s article that led to his success, and it isn’t wrong. If it was his music that made him so successful, I wonder why it 11 years for him to finally make any kind of splash on the scene.

None of his success is belittled, because that was the intention of the video. You can clearly see comedy was what he was aiming for.

http://twitter.com/A7316A AB

But isn’t that the point behind “Gangnam Style?” Someone who doesn’t look like he belongs in that area or class, therefore giving into stereotypes himself, acting as if he does belong. Or “But the guy doesn’t look like Beverly Hills. Dance doesn’t look like
Beverly Hills. … And the situation in music video doesn’t look like
Beverly Hills. But he keeps saying I’m Beverly Hills style. So that’s
the point. It’s sort of a twist.”

With a song that has a music video like “Gangnam Style,” the visuals are the first to hit. So while Psy is clearly musically gifted, the appeals of the song are more for how he plays himself as a character to laugh at. Yes, laugh at, not with. But from that comedy comes eventual appreciation for his style. And we’ve got to be real here; in places like the United States, stereotypes are rampant, and all those factors mentioned in the quote you chose are valid for why the song and video are popular.

And I still don’t see how the writer is belittling his success. “Psy’s victory is a victory for Psy and Psy alone — and not only does
that victory come at the price of potentially being pigeon-holed into
the role of chubby Asian gagman, it also holds very little promise for
any other Korean music acts that hope to follow in his footsteps.”

She acknowledges that Psy has managed to make it to the US, which alone speaks of his influence on the world’s audience. But the article points out that his influence provides a misconception about what the majority of K-pop is actually like. Some people may take the time to actually look into Korean music. Some may like what K-pop has to offer. But there will be those that expect more music like Psy’s and will be disappointed. Rather than belittling Psy, the writer is more commenting on the expectation that K-pop will now make it big because one Korean artist has made it.

First off, please be respectful. We’re all trying to have constructive conversation about the phenomenon of Westerners taking to Gangnam Style, and you’re calling the author names. There’s no doubt that all of us K-Pop lovers are basking in the awesomeness that is Gangnam Style and Westerners’ going gaga over it. Please, chill out. Because honestly, calling someone a “hater” for giving their well-thought out opinion is so played out.

Secondly, Gangnam Style is gimmicky. And I’m positive Psy KNOWS THAT. Being gimmicky is not a bad thing when you do it this well. The author is not saying we shouldn’t be happy about Gangnam Style, but that we shouldn’t expect this to make K-Pop accepted by Westerners. For reals, that’s cray cray. So please, read the article again and this time read it without being so angry and ready to pounce on the author and everyone else. This ain’t allkpop.

*does Gangnam Style dance*

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

Ok they do say perception differ from person to person I now I see that it is indeed true. I have reread the article and my comment. I did not disrespect the author, but I made it clear that I do not like the article. I would never claim that the MV or even the song is not Gimmicky, because like you put it it would be crazy. But I did say that I don’t like this comment: “But here’s the rub: Psy only got his foot in the door at all because
“Gangnam Style” is gimmicky, plain and simple. The music video is
comical purely because Psy is a chubby Asian doing a stupid and
easy-to-imitate horse dance, and the song caught on largely because the
hook is partially in English and therefore easy to repeat” …..is not right or accurate.The fact that the the song is Gimmicky is not the “only” factor that makes it so popular. Had the song in itself suck, the MV would not matter people would still not like it. True she threw some good words here and there, but overall the article, the title included is very negative. And yes we laughed at the character that Psy is portraying, but does that mean people are laughing at Kpop it its aggregate? After all is said and done, after the “Gangnam style mania” dies off, it will leave more people aware of kpop, which is the point: exposure.

Furthermore, it’s true that no matter who you are if you can’t just give a compliment without it being back handed, I qualify you as a hater. I don’t like the article, not the author herself since I made it clear by saying: “Because I knew based on this one sentence alone the rest of the article
can only be the ranting of a hater trying to bad mouth a very successful
artist. Quite frankly you may be a very lovely level-headed young
person but that is not what you’re portraying right at this moment.” I have read many of her articles some I agree and disagree with, but this one is not right. To me it feels like the whole Gabrielle Douglas hair situation all over again. Here is one person doing things that no other Korean has done before, but the one thing we want to focus on is the OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN.
Psy is giving exposure to all kpop, does it matter if it doesn’t last. At least to a few it will be an introduction to kpop, and it will be a link to other kpop artists. shouldn’t that be the only thing we focus on right now? On ur Twitter page it says spreading the kpop love one person at a time, isn’t that what Gangnam style is doing right now? Shouldn’t we just be grateful for that. While everyone is cheering on do we have to rain on their parade? because this is what this article is doing.

Look if the author feels personally offended I sincerely apologize because that was not the intention, and I was not taking a stab at her character but more at the article and her comments. But I will stick to the things that I said. If you can’t just be happy , with no buts or needless analyzing about joyful situation then you’re a hater.

This is not allkpop? well you could have fooled me! Take some time to read the comments box, and tell me how it differs from allkpop? Thank you for calling me angry, because that would not be something that allkpop commentators would say!

http://profile.yahoo.com/2O2A3MG36XPEZ553L4GUYO74KI Kim

That’s the problem. People are already being TOO optimistic about k-pop, there’s gotta be that one cynical opinion willing to lay down the fact that if we get too excited, we’ll most likely get disappointed. >>

All elephants are grey, not all grey things are elephants. Psy is a Korean Music artist, not all Korean Music artists are like Psy.

True, people’s default state means that their understanding of a thing/place/issue/people normally relates to the last version of it that they witnessed but most people have sense enough to know what the Korean Music scene doesn’t begin and end with Psy.

As for the complexities and subtext (and most probably even lyrics and meaning) which most non-Korean viewers will miss, I am reminded of Professor Frink’s from The Simpsons, comment to kindergarten kids who wanted them to ‘know’ how a toy worked before allowing them to ‘play’ with it, “No you can’t play with it, you won’t enjoy it on as many levels as I do!” I can not help but feel that these sentiments reek a little of elitism.

Truly, I don’t think Gangnam Style will be detrimental to the Korean Music scene just as other unexpected ‘foreign’ hits in America didn’t diminish other international music markets. Maybe there will be a little annoyance if in a bid to mirror such success there is a sudden influx of copies BUT the Korean Music scene will not collapse because of it.

Has Psy’s Gangnam Style hindered or made more difficult other Korean Artists venturing into the American Market by creating expectations? No, because the American Music Market is a fickle beast and believe me the last thing they want is ANOTHER Gangnam Style, so that we are pretty much left in the same position as before it went viral EXCEPT that many people now know that a Korean Music scene exists and many more that South Korea is a place on their planet! Kudos to Psy and wherever this leads him, I wish him much happiness and success!

http://twitter.com/DancingWid Widney Gay

Thank you. Well put.

meager

i’d rather see psy succeed in America than to ever see some vomit-inducing band like Shinee succeed

http://twitter.com/M_Wys Michaela Wylie

Well that’s a little harsh.

http://twitter.com/DeniseHuxxtable Thank You Sun God

I agree with this article completely. I also think it’s funny that a lot of people want to think that this video will help kpop spread through out the world….lol no. This is a funny man shtick that will get old sooner rather than later.

But I’m still happy for Psy.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Kristina-Nisi/512211259 Kristina Nisi

I believe what the author is trying to state is that because people have a default setting of an ‘anchoring effect’, which means that your introduction to something will shape how you view it in the future, this will be how western people who were not avid kpop fans to begin with will view the rest of kpop. Psy’s Gangnam Style is gimmicky, yes, but there are so many American and Korean bands and artists who use gimmicks and they are successful.The author is not trying to devalue the success that Psy has already achieved, but she is saying that those who have been introduced to kpop through Psy will expect kpop to be more of the same. Also, to those who believe she is a hater, it’s called an opinion piece that was well thought out and written; she’s not shoving this article down your throat and you were the ones who decided to read the article and take it negatively. Everyone has their own opinion and are free to express it, whether you like it or not. In the future, check the title of the article and if you have a gut feeling that you won’t like what is being said in it, then don’t read it, free will and all that.

regina_filange

Psy isn’t doing anything for kpop, but what he’s doing isn’t negative. I do feel like he can have mild success if he goes Gaga- as in he has an image and a sound that everyone’s used to, and as long as he sticks to that and does something fun and new and ups the ante visually, he could do it.

Even if he doesn’t make it, there’s something k-pop has gained from this. I feel that along with a lot of people’s assessments of why kpop won’t make it here, they say that there is a cultural and racial barrier the artists have to overcome. Psy’s sucess shows that racism isn’t the reason why k-pop doesn’t succeed, it’s probably the HUGE differences in presentation, the multiple member groups, the difference in sound, idol-dom, and poor production/pronunciation when reaching out to a broader audience. At least the kpop industry knows now more than ever that success can come if you present something interesting and awesome and don’t try to push
it onto anyone.

severely

I completely agree. I don’t know how his success could possibly be misconstrued as him breaking into the American music market. It’s great for him (and YG, who I’m sure is getting a healthy cut), but it’s not helping kpop as a whole.

It’s a viral video. Its success couldn’t be predicted. It obviously wasn’t even intended to be popular in the United States, considering how many Americans have no idea that “Gangnam Style” references the Gangnam district in Seoul, and is not just some funny name. The fact that it became popular and is being played on the radio and that Psy is getting some deserved recognition for his talents is wonderful. But I liken it to this: he is Rebecca Black, except with a good song. The interest will fizzle out eventually, and he’ll have his one-hit wonder in the US and whole generation of people will sort of know him.

I’d be more impressed with the movement of hallyu, though, if it had been an intentional attempt to break into the US market. Viral success brings short-term interest, but it doesn’t bring what intentional attempts are intended to bring: long-term, loyal fans. While people are taking the viral success, because you take what you can get, if kpop legitimately wants to break into the US market, it needs the latter group of fans. In the same way the Wonder Girls need more than just Wonderfuls to support their English ventures, kpop as a whole needs more than just viral success or kpop fans to support a legitimate breakthrough into the American market.

hippocampus123

Psy’s victory is a victory for Psy and Psy alone — and not only does that victory come at the price of potentially being pigeon-holed into the role of chubby Asian gagman, it also holds very little promise for any other Korean music acts that hope to follow in his footsteps.
Couldn’t agree more. But I don’t understand why so many people have an issue with it or want other groups to piggyback on his success. So maybe he got lucky with Gangnam Style but does it negate his previous work? Admittedly I’ve listened to nothing of Psy’s but I see his recent success as payback for all the previous years. Every dog has it’s day, and it’s Psy’s turn. Quite frankly it just goes to show the other kpop acts that pop artists imply entertainment and will never be idolized in the rest of the world as it is in SK.

http://twitter.com/kokomilgrim 코코 밀그림

You are indeed right, we shouldn’t expect anyone else to benefit from PSY’s success. And one worldwide hit song is one more than I have, so it is an accomplishment in itself. I just think it will be easier for all of us to be properly happy for PSY when people stop saying ridiculous, overarching things about “Gangnam Style”.

http://twitter.com/_amyhoney ☆Amy

Perhaps I am the only one who feels this way, but I DON’T want any other groups to piggyback on his success. He deserves this limelight. I think G-Dragon could make a cross-over, but again, that’s because he’s talented in more than just being a pretty face.

Let them have their cake and eat it too. If another KPOP group gains success, good for them, but they should do it on their own terms, (and they shouldn’t do it with the intention of TRYING to break into the US market). Let success happen.

lemon224

“Quite frankly it just goes to show the other kpop acts that pop artists imply entertainment and will never be idolized in the rest of the world as it is in SK.” I agree with the rest of the comment, but I don’t think that Idol groups are taken that seriously by the majority of the South Korean public. This is why idols are always talking about why they wan’t to be taken seriously despite being idols. International fans just usually hear about the crazy fans, and it sometimes seems that way.

I agree with everything you said. “Gangnam Style” is not a serious song. It’s kind of a joke. That doesn’t mean it’s not a good song, but it’s a joke. Honestly, one I’m really sick of by now. I think I’ve gotten used to Kpop’s usual fifteen minutes of fame before the next comeback happens. I actually like that; it keeps me interested (or distracted, if you’d like to say). Even though “Gangnam Style” came out over a month ago, people are still talking about it. I find it very strange. It’s also a little awkward for me, because I was there with the Kpop fandom when no one could shut up about “Gangnam Style”, and now everything else is doing that here in the States. I think about half my high school knows the song, and the rest is kind of hearing about it. I kinda feel like a hipster, because I’ve been thinking: “I danced this in a flashmob a month ago.” What can you do, though?

But being serious, I think I’m actually kind of upset that “Gangnam Style” is the song that caught American interest in Kpop. Not because I wanted it to be my bias or anything–because I feel like now everyone will generalize Kpop as a joke. I think you’re exactly right saying the video’s popular because PSY’s a chubby Asian guy with a good sense of humor. The first impression Kpop makes on the general public is a gag. I also think it’s a bit sad that PSY didn’t even try to break the American market but exploded here anyways, especially since other artists, like the Wonder Girls or BoA, worked really hard to crack the U.S. market without any success. The whole message that Kpop won’t be taken seriously in America is just a bitter message for a Kpop fan like myself, and I’m honestly a little upset that “Gangnam Style” is doing so well. :/

mangochic

I think everyone is being too hard on Psy. I think it’s great that he got this massive hit and he is getting airplay and royalties. I think if he plays his cards right, he will open a lot of opportunities for himself. I also think a lot of new fans as they may check out his other songs.

I don’t usually buy that one guy/group opens the door for others talk especially in music as it just depends on someone’s tastes. Even if Wondergirls or another group broke out, I don’t think it would mean other groups can break out too. I don’t think the US music scene works like that. It’s generally, every man/woman for themselves.

I don’t think most people would assume that he is representative of k-pop as generally there are so many genres in music.

Lastly, I am happy that he is the one who gets the massive fame as he is original, unique and his music doesn’t sound factory produced. It has it’s own unique flavor. I think it’s masterful how he used it as a mockery of society. It kinda reminds me of a song for the 99% against the 1% who control everything.

soluiz

Can’t compare with then and now. And the fact that psy having a decade of experience under his belt shows because his other songs are being clicked too on YT. Kpop is a minority with most people not knowing the existence. Even more people won’t see past a group of legs in sync. Psy is an introduction to a lot of people on the existence and this shows in YT comments section. Yes the next time your ‘homegurls’ appear on America tv, they would have more hype and exposure because people know psy. Beats anything you’re devising.

http://twitter.com/DJPeterLo DJ Peter Lo

Sure there are elements to PSY that are gimmicky which led to the sudden popularity; but you know what this has done? It’s started the mainstream western *conversation* on Kpop more than anything else before it. Mass audiences are now aware, and are starting to ask what else there may be.

Today, while driving to work, I listened to the morning show of a top 40’s radio station. On it, the radio personality said that he that he found the song funny at first but now he likes it. He then noticed that the song brought korean words to mainstream fm airwaves. He observed that where the rest of the world listens to American pop music without full understandning of the English lyrics, for the first time, we’re starting to see the reverse picture. People dig the korean song without understanding the lyrics in America, much like the rest of the international community had to do with American music.

This is a paradigm change, people!

Whenever Gangnam Style is played on Clear Channel radio stations, music directors and djs have noticed a spike in positive calls, texts and emails. What gets plays on FM radio will chart billboard rankings, sell records and gain the attention of executives.

If it is our goal to share how awesome Kpop is, then we should use this Gangnam Style craze as an opportunity to start conversations on kpop and inform. Oh you like Gangnam Style, eh? Have you heard other x kpop band? It’s great because xyz.

http://twitter.com/_amyhoney ☆Amy

*raucous applause*

Preach, brothah!

http://profile.yahoo.com/MMRQEZEPSNJ26LJ7XJNDDM5NCI JasmineA

That’s how I kind of feel. I mean this may not get people into all kpop groups, I mean even with me their are only a select few groups that I really like and follow but it will defiantly open the door for discussion. Some may become fans from it, some may not. I’m honestly just gonna wait and see what happens. if anything I think its all a positive thing. What is kpop loosing from this. Nothing. If anything it is getting people to talk. So I look at Psy success as a positive thing. I don’t get why people are trying to turn this into something negative.

http://twitter.com/DJPeterLo DJ Peter Lo

There’s been a lot of talk that PSY isn’t kpop.

This is kpop.

At least I want it to be. :-|

http://twitter.com/_amyhoney ☆Amy

Actually, I think Psy will fare better BECAUSE he has the experience. He’s been in the US; he knows the pop culture, even if he doesn’t show it. And if you’ve watched any of the interviews he’s had on US television, he’s handled them very, very well. I think the fact that he doesn’t take himself too seriously as a KPop artist helps too.

US music fans want substance, something that few KPOP groups can truly offer (aside from the big names), and Psy has that. He may not make a hit like “Gangnam Style” again for US audiences, but his name is and stars want to work with him. THAT is what makes him different from other KPOP artists. He could easily produce a song for Katy Perry, T-Pain, or Britney Spears and make it a success. Why? Because he knows and understands music.
Psy isn’t just being export from Korea as an entertainer, he’s the whole package: writer, producer, director, singer, actor. That’s something very few idols can claim and thus, it limits the level of success then can achieve abroad.

Maybe it’s just over-optimism, but I think Psy can do very well if he plays his cards right, and considering HE plays his cards (and not the Entertainment company), there’s an even bigger chance for success.

Ariel2003

Yes I’m excited at the kind of hi-breed Psy will cook up with all this collaboration. Been reading SB for a while now and you did an article on collaboration you wanted to see but probably won’t, lol Psy wasn’t on the running but just a tiny bit aren’t you excited that maybe this could be a start of other YG artists crossing over and doing some collaboration, networking is everything don’t ya know. Hey what about Epik High what if, what if…. mind explodes.

http://profile.yahoo.com/RI3PLOTVERSQRPP46GXJXGOMWI Lisa F

Psy is different than all kpop stars. He gave something fresh and new that stole America’s attention. The rest of kpop stars are just fabricated and all look the same. They can’t break US market with things that America already has.

http://twitter.com/NotMyBirthday21 Lakeisha

People are hating on Psy because people always thought SNSD, Wonder Girls, Big Bang and 2NE1 would be the ones to break America not PSY.

kmoo4986

SNSD, Wonder Girls, Big Bang, and 2NE1 are way too generic for Americans. If anything, we’ll laugh at them. Sad but true because the first time I watched K-Pop vids I laughed my ass off. Actually I still laugh my ass off these days…

http://twitter.com/M_Wys Michaela Wylie

…Okay, so… I don’t have a problem with the fact that you don’t like those groups, but calling them too generic for America makes me laugh.

kmoo4986

Who said I didn’t like the groups? I love Big Bang, Wonder Girls are my 2nd fave JYP girl group, and SNSD & 2NE1 have a couple of my fave songs. So I like them but again, they’re way too generic for America. Sure we have generic artists here too but K-Pop takes it to another level.

SNSD and the Wonder Girls are too “cutesy/sugary” for anything but the Disney/Nick audience in the US, but 2NE1 would definitely appeal to the larger American audience (that is, if they sung totally in English).

http://pulse.yahoo.com/_EXJU3M2KCSRIDECLUCJGUZFQTQ knn knn

2ne1 and Big Bang too generic?

http://twitter.com/DeNote42 Deni

I don’t know why some people think this song will bring permanent change to western music and kpop. It’s a fad – a Korean “Macarena.”

norimix1

So many article and blogs comparing him to William Hung.. >.<
I feel like non Koreans are laughing at him not with him..

http://twitter.com/M_Wys Michaela Wylie

God, there are so many comments making me feel sad because they say that Psy is better than Kpop idols because idols don’t have any originality. :( I mean…they aren’t all the same. :/

http://twitter.com/MusicTeaorg MusicTea.org

As an American, I’m just seeing this as another “one-hit wonder.” The only thing I know about Psy is this song, and I’m wondering how is he going to follow this up? Will he be able to create an interesting enough, rounded-out image of himself that can make many styles his own, and genuinely evolve his style as he goes? If he can do that he might stay relevant, or he’ll just disappear in a few months and be remembered as “that funny Asian guy.”

When a song randomly becomes popular, I don’t think many of us even consider what country the artist is from. It’s just a fun, catchy song. I think the percentage of people who will actually look up Psy, South Korea, or mainstream Korean music is low. Do any Americans reading my comment agree?

As a K-pop fan, already overwhelmed with the amount of artists to keep up with, Psy managed to stand out and make me interested in looking up his music. I’ve been getting really tired of K-pop lately. It’s so full of generic, uninspired imitations. I’m hoping this Gangnam Style explosion will shake up K-pop a little, and we’ll start seeing more variety and the bravery to try something new and different more often. This has made it plainly obvious that copying Western trends, watering it down to fit whatever is selling in Korea right now, then repackaging a song in English is not going to win any new American fans.

http://twitter.com/Caaaal Callum

I’m just glad that finally a Kpop song has become a one hit wonder. Thats the least i’ve wanted. I can now die a happy kpop fan.

Judith Mopalia

Some of the payoff here for South Korea might be more subtle than you’re seeing. Almost everyone I know asked me about it (I make no secret of my addiction to K-Pop), and I responded with links to articles about the meaning of the song, translations, historical overviews of Seoul and Gagnam, and analyses of the song’s musical quality and social commentary. As a result of this, all my friends (and acquaintances – I was driven to post this stuff on Live Journal and other social sites because of the number of questions that came at me) know a lot more about South Korea and its society and economic development, not to mention me exposing them to a lit more videos or K-Pop. So, sometimes we don’t know what the payoffs will be, but it can’t have hurt K-Pop. Plus, Psy, who seems like a decent fellow, will get rich. Also very nice. :)

Nabeela

OH MY GOD YES DANA

http://twitter.com/annazabc KyuZabc

lol totally agree…. I see this song mostly as a novelty hit… not sure what long-lasting impact it has or will have on K-pop……. However, if it gets people curious and they start checking out other K-pop vids and other stuff that PSY’s released… it’s not a bad thing….

Literati Tempo

IA Gangnam Style isn’t representative of K-POP. By K-Pop I don’t mean Korean Music (it’s easy to get the two confused) I mean pop music idol groups (for the most part) S. Korea’s Top 40 (kinda Busker Busker isn’t kpop either and they have a great top 40 success). Because of this PSY’s success isn’t going to help EXID or 2NE1 or SNSD when they are trying to make it on the top 9 at 9.

PSY’s Gangnam Style is Epik High wordsplay in a Weird Al-ish wrapper. Most people like the catchy/funny/shiny package while those who can appreciate the message he’s sending out as well.

Most of kpop is like Justin Bieber a pretty face, great marketing, mixed with a bit of talent. Without the “Weird Al” novelty the PSY has KPOP groups are going to have to do something else to get recognized on their own. He’s not helping your Oppa get played by Casey Kasem (RIP) that’s something they are going to have to do all on their own.

kmoo4986

Thank you Dana!!!

Ok, I’m happy for Psy, but I do agree this will not help K-Pop break into the U.S. market- there are way too many strikes against them: the overwhelming majority of K-Pop groups can’t perform live and without an audio track (even the bands like CN Blue and FT Island use audio tracks!! WTF!!!), their English is terrible/lyrics make no sense, and their too damn generic, not to mention most of the trends in K-Pop happened like 2-3 yrs ago in the U.S (AND boybands are so 12yrs ago…One Direction doesn’t count). Needless to say I have no hope in K-Pop doing anything beyond this in America.

Waetoria

Why must the Korean media try to extrapolate exaggerated meaning from everything K-pop that happens overseas? In my opinion this has nothing to do with the greater Hallyu Wave – meaning its not part of any Korean movement sweeping over the world. Rather, as the writer and many commentators note, it’s a novelty hit along the lines of “Macarena” and countless other one-hit wonders. It’s a confluence of factors – catchy hook in English, hilarious MV, age of social media with youtube and “liking” and “retweeting,” respectable American news websites that blend pop and politics (re: Slate, Huffington Post, etc), and so on.

I am not putting Psy down, I think the guy has a lot more talent than meets the eye. But let’s call it what is it – a momentary flare in the frenetic world of pop music. He will be on various “Best of 2012″ or “Looking Back on 2012″ lists (to think he’ll be mentioned in the same articles as the 2012 US presidential election!) and just as quickly he’ll be forgotten and relegated to the mounting digital debris of the internet. I’m an American living in NY with plenty of friends both familiar with and ignorant of K-pop and my experience says, we are essentially just laughing at this funny looking chubby Asian doing ridiculous things. Of course Psy may be laughing all the way to the bank…

I personally find this song simultaneously annoying yet entertaining, I like his “Gangnam style” lines while finding his voice a bit creepy. As for following up in the US market? I hear he speaks English which is a definite necessity if you are going to make any mark in the US but does he have the same presence and charisma that is demanded of stars here? There is a difference between being charismatic in the eyes of Koreans than in the eyes of Americans and along with the fact that Korean artists who promote here always seem to have one foot firmly planted in the Korean market (so as to never offend their home fans), I don’t think much will come in the way of a follow up.

Ha my dad watched it for the first time on Sunday, only to stop paying attention halfway through!

zazuki_24

I tried with my dad too! But he was not interested. Heck, I asked everyone in my house and they are like oppa who? LOL.

pandasaurus

PSY is cheezy and funny and not altogether bad looking – we get it! And THAT’s exactly why we love him. On a radio show interview, he said he never thought he’d become a kpop star – even though he’s been doing this for nearly 16(?) years. He’s right. He’s not part of the kpop scene. So regardless, he’ll survive – even if kpop doesn’t.

shalom69

Dana, let’s cut to the chase and talk about why Psy is popular. In short. All the things you’re insecure about… you are right.

For context consider that MORE views of Gangnam Style come from the US than Korea. And more views come from the West (USA+Europe plus a smattering of South America) than from Asia.

Then consider the demographics. The vast majority of pop music is driven by teen girls. This goes not only for Justin Bieber and Carly Rae but all pop music. Look at the counts for Akon… hardly a girly song, it’s misogynistic if anything. But the top view come from girl 13-17. All pop music is like that… going all the way back to “Blue Eyes” Frank Sinatra and Elvis to the Jackson 5 to even the Beatles.

Kpop is also driven by girls. It’s a fact. Girl Groups like SNSD and boy bands like Big Bang are driven first and foremost by girls. But Gangnam Style is different. It’s primarily been driven by reddit, 9gag, 4chan and other domains of young males. It’s passed around on Starcraft and League of Legends communities. That is not a Kpop audience.

You are right that Psy isn’t representative of Kpop. Let’s face it. Psy is a clown. He’s popular and appealing the way that Mr. Chow and Bobby Lee are appealing to young males. The way Lonely Island is popular. He’s a sort of William Hung with talent.

So your starting premise is right on the money. There’s tremendous danger and maybe even a bit of racism in Psy’s appeal.

But now what?

First of all keep something in mind. Americans, even Asian Americans operate with a very American knee jerk/short term mindset. Take the long view. Yes Psy is a clown. But what type of clown is he? Is he in on the joke? Psy himself mentions Austin Powers and Mr Bean. Those guys are clowns but they have OWNERSHIP of the joke so they have the power and they are respected. There’s no question that people laugh at Gangnam Style but are they laughing at Psy or with Psy? That’s the line that Psy has to navigate. And it’s not going to be easy. Keep in mind what Hollywood did to Jackie Chan… the most talented action star of all time… he could never navigate that line in the US and was repeatedly cast as the clown and eventually the American audience got bored of laughing at him. Chan left the US altogether and wasted a good chunk of his best years making crap movies for hacks in the US who didn’t even respect him.

Second keep in mind the TREMENDOUS RACISM that Koreans have faced and that Asian americans have faced in the US. It’s not a recent thing. Chinese have been lynched, excluded and marginalized for 170 years going back to the 1840s when Chinese coolies were brought over as slaves to work on railroads. 400,000 were brought over but by the 1930s only 30,000 of their descendants remained (compared to 600,000 total slaves brought over and their 45 million descendants today). They were literally worked to death then any cultural, social and historical trace of them was wiped from the tablet of America. Similarly there were Asian performers in Hollywood and music as early as the 1920 but they too were systematically excluded, marginalized and destroyed. Today they are forgotten. Today even 99.99% of Japanese Americans know the nameSessue Hayakawa.

TO be clear Psy does not have a “good chance” to make it in the US. He probabably doesn’t even have a FAIR CHANCE. But he has a chance. It’s more than any other Asian artist has had in the past 100 years in this country. He goes on the Today show. He goes to MTV. This is his shot and having a shot at all… even an unfair one… is something that he has to go for.

As for the Macarena comparison, yes they were a one hit wonder. But it’s also clear that them getting ON THE RADIO and attuning American ears to hearing Spanish over the airwaves set the table for Ricky Martin and the Latin Explosion of the late 90s. J Lo would not exist without Macarena. Pit Bull would not exist without Macarena. The best case scenario for Kpop would be along those lines. To this day Pit Bull and other latin flavored artists have crossover hits every week on the youtube 100 and the billboard charts. If Kpop can become a flavor of American pop music, and if ASIAN ARTISTS CAN GET OPPORTUNITIES unlike the deliberate, systematic discrimination in our country’s history then Psy will have done his job beyond all expectations.

Retrogirladdy

Your point regarding the Latin Explosion of the 90’s is interesting.
Reggaeton, has specifically helped to make in roads on American radio
and has solidified a market with many non-Spanish speaking people.
The brilliance of Gangnam Style goes beyond the video and into the
song structure/beat. It’s set up perfectly to be added to Zumba playlists,
alongside Don Omar’s Danza Kudro, Jai Ho, and other non-English songs who
force anyone with a pulse to dance.

http://twitter.com/sweetgurl009 Gilda Ocampo

I don’t agree with the macarena comparison…..JLo is from Bronx, she barely speaks spanish. Pitball was born in Miami. I mean they are Americans ( they have a hispanic background, yes) it’s not like they are from Spain or South America. I still don’t think that Macarena paved the way for singers like Ricky martin and Shakira to make it in the U.S.

If you can’t acknowledge the revolution then I feel sorry for you. Whoever you are. Peopl are ever trying to learn the language so they can sing along. Therefore, Gangnam style did in one hit, what many of us have been trying to do for years. It introduced people, to the culture the language of Koreans. How about we all just shut up and enjoy the wonder.

lilibaiyu

Unpopular opinion?? I don’t think so. Psy is a flash in the pan. There is no intrinsic talent there. The rest of the world may momentarily look and laugh at him and then forget about him. If you think this will help the cause of truly great Korean artists like Hwanhee, like Junsu, like Tim Hwang, like Park Hyo Shin… then I don’t know what to tell you.

mangochic

You seriously think he has no talent? LMAO!!!

http://twitter.com/dds87 dechen

and yet she/he thinks Junsu is more talented than Psy..*smh*

kpopfan6

I don’t know what Seoulbeats, or anyone with similar opinions, wants tbqh.

People say PSY is get popularity because he’s a fat Asian guy doing a funny dance and has a gimmicky song. Yet Kpop is overflowing with gimmicks and to many people it’s just random Asian people who sing and dance to cheesy songs their company wrote for them.

Kpop in and of itself is not a form a music with much depth or meaning nowadays and it’s pretty much just as commercial (if not more so) than U.S. pop.

However, like the article says, at least Psy “possesses a strong command of English,… knows music, knows the music industry,…is directly involved in both the creation and performance of his material,… and is decently talented as a rapper and a performer”. So even if Kpop doesn’t get anywhere because of him, I hope the Kpop industry realizes the kind of assets Psy has and make sure their idols develop them too.

SamiSwanSion

Finally, someone else said it! I agree completely, and I even made this comment the first time Gangnam Style hit sb’s pages. I EVEN USED NUMA NUMA as an example! He’s just a fad for laughs, he’ll go down in youtube history and that’s about it. He will not lead a K-revolution in the US, he will not become the anchor on Ellis Island in which all our K-favorites can finally enter the “New World.” He’ll hang out with Rebecca Black, and the like, for their one hit wonders and meme-worthy videos/performances.

http://twitter.com/TheKetashiRiver Kate

I completely agree with you. As soon as Gangnam Style went viral and people started screaming “HEYYYYY SEXY LADY!!” everywhere, I just started cringing. I agree that it’s nice that a K-Pop song has become successful, and that it IS a catchy song, but I hate that it’s popular for all the wrong reasons.

PSY is a pretty talented artist, but there’s more to K-Pop than amusing videos with odd actions. I truly appreciate that PSY has opened the door for other groups, but I’m just hoping that those who would call themselves ‘k-poppers’ don’t find K-Pop something to laugh at with their friends, and appreciate it for the multi-dimensioned genre that it is.

http://profile.yahoo.com/FKPK6U4PSAXYEKRMC2CEXASD5Y Bean Boop

Oh god yes. I was going to comment saying exactly this, You took the words right out of my mouth! Thank you for this, really. It’s so true.

http://profile.yahoo.com/ZLPSC43DBXWJERPSP3L25HY7WA Euri

To me, it seems like people aren’t liking Kpop at all. They just think it’s some pudgy, asian guy dancing like a horse. At my school only a few (like, 3) people knew of Kpop before Gangnam Style became viral. And now, all we hear is ‘Oppan Gangnam style!’ all the way down the hallway. At first, I was on board with Kpop getting big in America. But now, it’s like they’re taking it as a joke. And when someone who’s only heard Gangnam Style claims they like Kpop, ask them to name 3 other songs NOT related to GS. Gets ’em every time.

After watching Psy’s Gangnam Style video a few times, I got curious about K-Pop and watched some stuff on Youtube. I like it. But they look like a bunch of girl bands and boy bands with cute outfits and shiny, happy sets. Creative, yes. Original, no. Psy is original, he paid his dues, and like it or not, he may be the one to introduce K-Pop to the U.S. and the world. Give credit where credit is due. He’s smart, he’s talented, and he’s funny. Did he not feature a number of other Korean artists, dancers, comedians, and singers in his phenomenally popular video? Then he is generous, too. Psy will outlast K-Pop. He deserves to.

http://profile.yahoo.com/VHVSMSHFAZ5EOZPCIJ4IO2IS2Q Elle

Psy is to Korean pop music & dance as Jackie Chan is to Chinese martial arts.
China owes a debt of gratitude to Jackie Chan. Korea owes a debt of gratitude to Psy.

Moniisek

I watched Gangam Style when it had about 500,000 views. I didn’t like the song and that was it (it’s just nothing like the typical idol MV). And then suddenly, people in my school started to scream oppaaaaa!! (not even caring to know what it actually means) and they even showed me a parody about it in my language. I almost cried! There’s quite a large ethnic minority of Vietnamese people in my country who became the target of rasistic jokes in this gangam style parody. So it’s just like in this article. A guy with slanted eyes making the fool of himslef is exactly what the westerner wants to laugh at.

Sonia Knapp

After 10 years in Korea I still hate Kpop (and for that matter Jpop and USofApop). . . but I respect Psy (Gangnam Style is getting a little old). Most westerners, including myself, appreciate that he is the master of, and clearly in on, the parody and satire. . . all the pull aways. . . the nods to the pretty boys and girlies that Psy has never been. I think it’s harder for Asians (Koreans) to imagine this one-of-a-kind, hardworking star to shine brighter than their shiny over packed fluff. One need only to see the humility, grace and humor with which Psy can handle any interviewer. He doesn’t have canned memorized answers and comes across as genuine and likable. No other Kpop artist has accomplished that in English (and few, if any in Korean!)

Sonia Knapp

After 10 years in Korea I still hate Kpop (and for that matter Jpop and USofApop). . . but I respect Psy (Gangnam Style is getting a little old). Most westerners, including myself, appreciate that he is the master of, and clearly in on, the parody and satire. . . all the pull aways. . . the nods to the pretty boys and girlies that Psy has never been. I think it’s harder for Asians (Koreans) to imagine this one-of-a-kind, hardworking star to shine brighter than their shiny over packed fluff. One need only to see the humility, grace and humor with which Psy can handle any interviewer. He doesn’t have canned memorized answers and comes across as genuine and likable. No other Kpop artist has accomplished that in English (and few, if any in Korean!)

NoctLightCloud

you live in Korea but don’t like Kpop?….woah, I pitty you then, must be hard for you sometimes. But “hate” is a strong word, I hope you know that ;-/

j j

His 3 minutes of fame is almost over, and it might end badly after all those choice words about killing Yankees. And now he makes it worse saying his words were ‘misinterpreted’. Pray Psy that the gods don’t take away your fame!

hittingbottom

I think, by virtue of everything you’ve described in your article, that Psy HAS done a massive favor for K-Pop. He’s the one who broke the mould of the generic, superficial crap that’s pumped out by the Korean entertainment-industrial complex (and let’s not forget that this is exactly where most K-Pop comes from). I’m speaking as a Korean who splits her time between Korea and the US, so I’ve been able to see this whole phenomenon unfold from both sets of perspectives. From what I can tell, he’s shown the rest of the world that Korean pop music, and at least certain pockets of our culture, are capable of self-critique, introspection, and complexity and hell, just being different. When the was the last time SNSD or Big Bang did that? As others before me have said, Psy actually has the potential to outlast K-Pop. Good for him; he’s done well.

hittingbottom

I think, by virtue of everything you’ve described in your article, that Psy HAS done a massive favor for K-Pop. He’s the one who broke the mould of the generic, superficial crap that’s pumped out by the Korean entertainment-industrial complex (and let’s not forget that this is exactly where most K-Pop comes from). I’m speaking as a Korean who splits her time between Korea and the US, so I’ve been able to see this whole phenomenon unfold from both sets of perspectives. From what I can tell, he’s shown the rest of the world that Korean pop music, and at least certain pockets of our culture, are capable of self-critique, introspection, and complexity and hell, just being different. When the was the last time SNSD or Big Bang did that? As others before me have said, Psy actually has the potential to outlast K-Pop. Good for him; he’s done well.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1561522305 Jarla Garrett

K-pop is not that well known or liked in the US because most people dont understand what they are saying and think the guys are very feminine which women here like masculinity and dominance which they seem to “Lack” and the women are baby face drama Queens period point blank. I like it and accidentally stumbled upon the world of K-pop in late June early July. I am fond of both feminine and manly guys which k-pop is clearly looked at as feminine but to be honest I’m more so into their Culture,movies,and dramas than music, I do like a good amount of Kpop, but I watch some kinda of Korean movie and/or drama everyday but their music is a different story. and this PSY thing I honestly think it could go either way, it can be the hype for now and then just die down and only be heard of once in a blue moon or it could be the path for other K-pop stars in America you never no so dont Prejudge! All I have to say is I hope one day Koreans/K-pop’s talent will be acknowledged and they get their shine. K-pop FIGHTING! <3

From a Black,Indian/Native American K-pop fan <3

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1561522305 Jarla Garrett

K-pop is not that well known or liked in the US because most people dont understand what they are saying and think the guys are very feminine which women here like masculinity and dominance which they seem to “Lack” and the women are baby face drama Queens period point blank. I like it and accidentally stumbled upon the world of K-pop in late June early July. I am fond of both feminine and manly guys which k-pop is clearly looked at as feminine but to be honest I’m more so into their Culture,movies,and dramas than music, I do like a good amount of Kpop, but I watch some kinda of Korean movie and/or drama everyday but their music is a different story. and this PSY thing I honestly think it could go either way, it can be the hype for now and then just die down and only be heard of once in a blue moon or it could be the path for other K-pop stars in America you never no so dont Prejudge! All I have to say is I hope one day Koreans/K-pop’s talent will be acknowledged and they get their shine. K-pop FIGHTING! <3